Whether you get hyped over professional wrestling and its stars, aspire to work in the fashion industry as a model or on the other side, geek out to Star Trek or want to test your mettle against fellow poker aficionados, there’s a cruise out there for you.

Read on for our selection of the best themed cruises for 2019 and 2020.

The Sci-Fi Sea Cruise

The scoop: The 22nd-annual Sci-Fi Sea Cruise is all about Doctor Who. Guests from the show’s long run include Ian McNeice and Frazer Hines. Join fellow Whovians for a trip to the Caribbean.
Dates: Dec. 13 to Dec. 22, 2019
Ship: Explorer of the Seas
Port of departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Labadee (private island); San Juan, Puerto Rico; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curacao
Website: scificruise.com

TCM Classic Cruise

The scoop: Join fellow Turner Classic Movies fans on a five-night cruise aboard the Disney Magic. Watch movies in Disney’s state-of-the-art theaters, and listen to behind-the-scenes stories at interactive panels with special guests, like Alex Trebek, Cicely Tyson, Mitzi Gaynor and Diane Ladd.
Dates: Oct. 22 to Oct. 27, 2019
Ship: Disney Magic
Port of departure: New York, NY
Itinerary: King’s Wharf, Bermuda
Website: tcmcruise.com

Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager

The scoop: Do you find lounging by the pool with a drink a little too relaxing? If you think a cruise would be more exciting with body slams and pile drivers, the Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager is for you. Host Chris Jericho joins wrestling legends like “Nature Boy” Ric Flair and Booker T for four nights of live podcasts, meet-and-greets, autograph signings and even a wrestling tournament.
Dates: Jan. 20 to Jan. 24, 2020
Ship: Norwegian Pearl
Port of departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas
Website: chrisjerichocruise.com

Disney’s Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise

The scoop: Sail away to tropical islands for your next holiday vacation on Disney’s three-night cruise to the Bahamas and a Disney private island. In the Bahamas, swim with dolphins, or see coral reefs and exotic fish from a semi-submarine. At Disney’s Castaway Cay, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, biking, kayaking and other outdoor activities. Dates: Dec. 6 to Dec. 9, 2019
Ship: Disney Dream
Port of departure: Port Canaveral, FL
Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas; Disney Castaway Cay
Website: disneycruise.disney.go.com

Star Trek: The Cruise IV

The scoop: On this Star Trek-themed voyage, Trekkies can join fellow fans for a variety of events that include some of the series’ biggest names. William Shatner, Kate Mulgrew, Garrett Wang and Jonathan Frakes will be in attendance, among a host of other former cast members. Fans will have an opportunity for autographs and photos. There are also one-of-a-kind shows performed at the Stardust Theater and a museum with Star Trek memorabilia provided by CBS.
Dates: March 1 to March 8, 2020
Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas
Port of departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Grand Bahama Island
Website: startrekthecruise.com

Ante Up Poker Cruise

The scoop: The highs (and lows) of playing slots on a cruise are always fun, but, if you’re a little more serious about gambling, this is the themed cruise for you. With multiple tournaments, you can easily find a level of play that you’re comfortable with. Not ready to take on the pros? Free poker classes can help you get ready for the big leagues.
Dates: Oct. 26 to Nov. 3, 2019
Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas
Port of departure: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Itinerary: Labadee, Haiti; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Website: http://www.anteupmagazine.com/

Holistic Holiday at Sea

The scoop: Vegans, rejoice: With expertly trained chefs and waiters aboard, you won’t have to worry about what’s for dinner on this cruise. This 11-day voyage specializes in vegan meals, as well as accommodating special diets, such as macrobiotic, gluten-free and raw. Want to continue your healthy habits at home? Cooking classes taught by internationally known chefs are offered throughout the cruise.
Dates: Feb. 21 to Feb. 28, 2020
Ship: MSC Divina
Port of departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: San Juan, Puerto Rico, Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda
Website: holisticholidayatsea.com

Southern Caribbean Dance Cruise

The scoop: Embark on this 10-night dance cruise throughout the southern Caribbean, as Crown Princess takes you from the Bahamas to the U.S. Virgin Islands and more. Dance activities are included in the cost, including private, social dance parties and workshops. You can also sign up for private lessons for an additional cost.
Dates: Dec. 7 to Dec. 17, 2019
Ship: Crown Princess
Port of departure: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Itinerary: Princess Cays, Bahamas; St. Thomas, USVI; Dominica; Grenada; Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands; Curacao
Website: sundancercruises.net

China-Korea-Japan Singles Cruise

The scoop: Combine your love for Asian culture with a potential love interest on this two-week singles cruise across China, South Korea and Japan. Take in the history of three of the world’s oldest cultures, as you cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium and partake in activities planned by your singles hostess. You can either share a cabin with a friend or a matched roommate, or you can purchase your own cabin.
Dates: March 28 to April 10, 2020
Ship: Celebrity Millennium
Port of departure: Shanghai (Baoshan), China
Itinerary: Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Beijing (Tianjin), China; Jeju Island, Korea; Kyoto (Osaka), Japan; Kobe, Japan; Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan; Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Website: bestsingletravel.com

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Traveling abroad doesn’t always entail long, grueling flights in a cramped and dark metal tube. In fact, the journey to your destination never has to feel like a journey at all, when you take a Caribbean cruise. But what makes for the best Caribbean cruises?

Maybe it’s cruising past a once-active volcano. Or perhaps it’s sinking your feet and crinkling your toes in the warm, embracing sands of one of the myriad jaw-dropping Caribbean beaches. Perhaps it’s trying new cuisine or interacting with people from a culture you’ve never even heard of.

Regardless of your motivations for traveling to the Caribbean, relaxing and vacationing are the priorities, and the best cruises to the Caribbean will have that in mind, too. Here’s our list of the best Caribbean cruise lines that will have an itinerary suited for you.

Royal Caribbean International

Sailing from: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cruise ship: Independence of the Seas

Itinerary: 5-night Western Caribbean Cruise

Destinations: Fort Lauderdale; Labadee, Haiti; Falmouth, Jamaica

Begin your adventure in Fort Lauderdale: The ship won’t leave until late afternoon, so you have most of the day for activities like visiting the Florida Everglades and shopping. After a day at sea, you’ll arrive in Labadee, Haiti, where you can zip-line 500 feet above the ground on the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line before indulging in local food. Your final destination is Falmouth, Jamaica, where you can go river-tubing or climb Dunn’s River Falls.

Onboard Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International makes sure boredom is not an option. There are three stories worth of water slides and a virtual-reality bungee trampoline, for starters. Hungry? Try everything from typical American fare to decadent, made-to-order Japanese cuisine at Izumi or juicy hand-cut steaks at Chop’s Grille. Entertainment and relaxing won’t be lacking either, as there’s a spa, shops, live shows and auctions, to name a few activities.

Princess Cruises

Sailing from: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cruise ship: Sky Princess

Itinerary: 7-day Western Caribbean Cruise

Destinations: Fort Lauderdale; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel, Mexico

Your ship will first take you to Grand Cayman of the Cayman Islands where you can explore George Town before snorkeling with stingrays. In Honduras, check out the over 2,700 iguanas at a local iguana farm. Then, in Belize, visit the125-animal zoo, or check out Mayan ruins dating back to 2000 B.C. Last but not least, Cozumel offers a look into Mexico’s history while offering attractions like a national park, beaches, Mayan ruins and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Sky Princess offers a multitude of entertainment and dining options, as well as activities to keep your entire group engaged, placing it among the best Caribbean cruise ships. There’s a newly released escape room you can try out, or attend cooking shows and wine-tastings. Feeling lucky? There’s a casino, too. Also onboard are live shows, outdoor movies, a spa, a fitness center and kids activities for ages 3 to 17, making for one of the best Caribbean islands cruises.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Sailing from: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Cruise ship: Viking Sea

Itinerary: 11-day West Indies Explorer

Destinations: San Juan; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Kitts (Basseterre), St. Kitts & Nevis; Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; Roseau, Dominica; St. John’s, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Martin; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Starting in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this Caribbean adventure will take you to eight other ports. Start in Tortola, and consider a forest hike or an offshore fishing trip. In St. Kitts, take in the views on a scenic, historic train ride. Then, in Bridgetown, visit Harrison’s Cave for an awe-inspiring site of stalagmites and stalactites (which one’s which, again?).

Day 7 of the voyage will take you to Roseau, where you can relax to the sounds of the flowing Indian River, as you travel by rowboat. St. John’s, your next port, offers a catamaran cruise with a lobster lunch and tours of historic Fort James. In Philipsburg, you can admire panoramic views from hundreds of feet above on a chairlift. Snorkel with sea turtles at your last port, St. Thomas, while engaging with other marine life.

Onboard Viking Sea, there’s a spa, a fitness center, shops, a salon, a myriad of restaurants, a theater, pools and a sports deck.

RELATED: 62 Thoughts Everyone Has on a Cruise

Silversea Cruises

Sailing from: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cruise ship: Silver Wind

Itinerary: 11-day Fort Lauderdale round trip

Destinations: Fort Lauderdale; Long Island (Clarence Town), Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Nevis, St. Kitts (Charlestown) & Nevis; St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda; Gustavia, St. Barthélemy; Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

You’ll leave from Fort Lauderdale in the early evening and travel at sea for a day before arriving in Clarence Town where you can explore coral reefs teeming with life, beautiful beaches and waterfalls. After another day at sea, you’ll visit San Juan and its lively, vibrant culture and people. Charlestown is next on the itinerary, and, here, you can take to the salt again for an offshore fishing trip.

In St. John’s, go horseback riding, or break out the golf clubs at Cedar Valley. In Gustavia, you’ll likely be jaw-dropped from the abundance of personal luxury yachts at bay (all pale in comparison next to Silver Wind, though), but don’t forget to visit the red and white Gustavia Lighthouse. For your last port, you’ll visit Jost Van Dyke and its turquoise waters and idyllic beach scenes with palm trees and blinding white sand. Go snorkeling off this island’s shores.

Silver Wind has a boutique, a theater for live shows, a fitness center, a pool deck, multiple bars, lounges and restaurants, a spa, a library, a casino and a salon, to name a few amenities, making for one of the best tropical cruises.

Celebrity Cruises

Sailing from: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cruise ship: Celebrity Reflection

Itinerary: 7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Destinations: Fort Lauderdale; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (Charlotte Amalie), U.S. Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Fort Lauderdale will play host to you and thousands of other passengers waiting to board Celebrity Reflection for this seven-night voyage. Here, you can explore beaches and have a relatively light day shopping, eating and enjoying South Florida life.

San Juan will be your first stop. Consider a trek through El Yunque National Forest, one of the most famous natural sites in the Caribbean in one of the best Caribbean cruise destinations. Day 4 will entail a stop on St. Thomas where not one culture reigns supreme: Danish, French, Spanish, West African and Caribbean influences can be seen all over the island. For your last stop in Philipsburg, prepare to go snorkeling in their crystal-clear, vibrant waters.

Aboard Celebrity Reflection, you’ll have the option to dine at a variety of restaurants, like the main Opus Restaurant that boasts “legendary” service. A martini bar and multiple lounges, among other onboard amenities, are also available for you to relax and enjoy life on the water outside your stateroom, making for one of the best cruises to the Caribbean islands.

Windstar Cruises

Sailing from: Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Cruise ship: Wind Surf

Itinerary: 7-day St. Maarten round trip

Destinations: Philipsburg; Tortola (Road Town), British Virgin Islands; Jost Van Dyke (Great Harbour), British Virgin Islands; Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands; Road Bay, Anguilla; Gustavia, St. Barthélemy; Falmouth Harbour, Antigua

For your first stop, you’ll visit Road Town on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. Here, you can go snorkeling around Norman Island. On Jost Van Dyke, you have the option to go on a kayaking eco-tour. At Road Bay, enjoy true paradise on a relatively remote beach with delicious local food. When you get to Gustavia for your penultimate port, consider returning to the water on a catamaran adventure. At your last stop on Antigua, take a segway tour around Fort James.

Your Windstar Cruise aboard Wind Surf includes all meals in all venues at any hour and 24-hour room service, all non-alcoholic beverages and coffee, multiple restaurants and lounges to enjoy, of course multiple pools and a spa, among other amenities.

Holland America

Sailing from: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Cruise ship: Koningsdam

Itinerary: 10-day Southern Caribbean Seafarer

Destinations: Fort Lauderdale; Half Moon Cay, Bahamas; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curaçao; Oranjestad, Aruba

What better way to spend a day in the luxurious Bahamas than by going an eco-bike ride and hike, as you explore Half Moon Cay on a relaxed, wholesome experience. Change the pace when you arrive at Grand Turk: Try a thrilling dune-buggy safari that’ll take you to multiple sites with more energetic means than a bike ride. For those interested in culture in the D.R., visit Puerto Plata for its Victorian-style architecture, the rum factory and the Plastic Artists Art Galleries.

Bonaire is, perhaps, one of the lesser-known Caribbean stops, so a trip to King’s Warehouse & Cultural Park for a historic tour filled with panoramic views might be worth it. In Willemstad, a trolley train will take you on a 50-minute trip that takes you around many local sites, like Scharloo, a former Jewish neighborhood with buildings begging to be photographed. On Aruba for your final stop, consider exploring an underwater shipwreck on a submarine adventure.

From the Rolling Stone Rock Room and the Lincoln Center Stage providing live-music performances to a multitude of dining experiences, ranging from Northwestern American fare to pan-Asian cuisines, and a spa, Koningsdam has no shortage of onboard amenities to keep you engaged.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Sailing from: Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Cruise ship: Seabourn Odyssey

Itinerary: 7-day Classic Yachtsman’s Caribbean

Destinations: Philipsburg; Frenchman’s Cay, British Virgin Islands; Gustavia, St. Barthélemy; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe; Castries, St. Lucia; Mayreau, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Bridgetown, Barbados

Your seven-day voyage will begin in Philipsburg: Go duty-free shopping before boarding. Then, on Frenchman’s Cay, take a self-driving safari and beach tour that’ll take you to Smugglers Beach, among other stops. In Gustavia, there are awe-inspiring beaches and now-dormant volcanic hills to explore. Basseterre has the Brimstone Hill Fortress that’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its 17th- and 18th-century military architecture.

On Guadeloupe, go clear-bottom kayaking, and become enamored with the natural marine world below. Castries is home to St. Lucia’s only rum distillery, so that’s a must-visit. On Mayreau, take a local boat to two islands for photo-ops galore. You’ll end your cruise in Bridgetown where you can explore the ocean waters while staying dry in a submarine on one of the top Caribbean cruises.

Restaurants, lounges, bars, a casino, a dance club and a sky bar are just a few of the features that highlight an engaging experience aboard Seabourn Odyssey.

The post Best Caribbean Cruises appeared first on Islands.

Big is too little a word to describe the newest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Gargantuan is more appropriate. Symphony of the Seas stole the title of largest ship in the world (from its sister Harmony of the Seas) when it made its inaugural cruise from Barcelona in late March. And like all of the cruise line’s Oasis-Class ships, this one offers an oversized adventure at sea: 2,759 staterooms accommodating 5,518 passengers (up to 6,680 at full capacity), a crew of 2,200 (from more than 150 countries), seven distinct “neighborhoods” and a nonstop lineup of onboard entertainment, activities and thrills. There’s so much to see and do — including dining at 20 restaurants (two of them new concepts), sipping at every type of bar imaginable, and splashing in two dozen pools and hot tubs — that enjoying it all during a week-long cruise can be a challenge. Here’s what’s new and what continues to captivate onboard Symphony of the Seas, as well as the itineraries that will take you to islands in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

New Features on Symphony of the Seas

The ship debuted two new dining concepts, a sports bar, a candy shop, two fun new interactive games, a pair of great shows and an over-the-top family suite.

Hooked Seafood

This airy specialty restaurant on Deck 16 overlooking the adults-only Solarium will cost you $39 per person, but you’ll enjoy hearty New England-style seafood specialties served in generous portions. Appetizer choices include fresh raw oysters, creamy clam chowder and a classic crab cake, while entrees include lobster, surf ‘n turf, mixed fried fish and a “messy sandwich” that lived up to its name. Save room for the massive blueberry cobbler or a huge slice of Boston Cream Pie.

El Loco Fresh

Offering chips and guacamole, tacos (soft or hard with fillings of beef, pork, chicken, rice and beans), burritos (beef or chicken) and cheesy quesadillas, this made-to-order eatery near the Deck 15 Sports Court will appeal to salsa-craving carb lovers — and it’s complimentary. What it lacks in finesse and originality (there’s a Chipotle vibe) it makes up for in ease, although you will wait in line.

Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade

For fans who don’t want to miss the action while at sea, this new bar that sprawls along one side of The Boardwalk on Deck 6 serves up sporting events on 31 big-screen TVs along with 20 arcade games and half-time favorites like wings and burgers and beer, wine and craft cocktails. It all costs extra — but you can always grab a free German bratwurst or Coney Island Dog from the nearby Boardwalk Dog House.

Glow-in-the-Dark Laser Tag and Escape the Rubicon

You can only enjoy the hot sun for so long, right? The addition of this action-packed, glow-in-the-dark laser tag game in Studio B on Deck 4 immerses two teams of eight players in an intergalactic Battle for Planet Z. Or if escape rooms are your thing, this one is set in the Rubicon submarine — and the clock is ticking.

The Ultimate Family Suite

Perhaps the ultimate splurge at sea for families who love to play, this duplex two bedroom on deck 17 features big-screen TVs and gadgets galore, vibrant décor (think Pee Wee’s Playhouse meets Legoland), a large balcony with a bar and hot tub, and a slide from the kids’ bedroom to the living room below. It accommodates up to eight (the kids’ room sleeps four and there’s a sofa bed in the living room) and will set you back $30,000 or more for a week-long cruise (but that includes unlimited beverages, including alcohol, as well as specialty dining privileges).

Hairspray and Flight

Baltimore’s Tracy Turnblad and her dance-loving cohorts will have you singing to the score of the feel-good Broadway musical Hairspray, while Flight (taking off May 27, 2018) carries you on a journey through time and space.

Sugar Beach

This candy and ice cream store, located on The Boardwalk on Deck 6, has plenty to satisfy those with a sweet tooth — but it will cost you extra.

Oasis-Class Passenger Favorites

Popular amenities from the three other Oasis-Class ships are also aboard Symphony of the Seas.

AquaTheater

Watch as acrobatic divers twist, turn and tumble from a pair of 10-meter Olympic diving boards during AquaNation performances on Deck 6.

The Perfect Storm and The Ultimate Abyss

Choose your adrenaline rush: wet and wild or high and dry. For the former, head for The Perfect Storm, a trio of waterslides on Deck 15, and for the latter, prepare to lunge 10 stories down the hypnotically lit and twisted tubes of the Ultimate Abyss on Deck 17.

Specialty Dining Options

Wonderland (imaginative cuisine with a side order of Mad Hatter crazy), Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver (simple, fresh and flavorful pastas and classic dishes), Chops Grille (steaks and seafood), and 150 Central Park (refined contemporary dining) are all aboard as well; all require a reservation and an added charge of $39-$59 per person.

Where You Can Sail on Symphony of the Seas

The ship is cruising the Mediterranean through October, and after a transatlantic voyage, will sail year-round to the Caribbean from Miami. Here are Symphony of the Seas itineraries that visit multiple islands.

7-Night Western Mediterranean Cruise: This itinerary, sailing from Barcelona or Rome and available until October 2018, calls on five ports, including the islands of Mallorca and Capri (from Naples).

7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise: Head to Miami to board Symphony of the Seas and visit St. Kitts, St. Thomas and Nassau; alternately, the ship calls on St. Maarten, Puerto Rico and Labadee, Haiti. Beginning in 2019, some itineraries will call on the line’s newly re-imagined Bahamian private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise: Visit Roatan, Honduras; Cozumel, Mexico; and Nassau, Bahamas on one itinerary; in 2019, some Western Caribbean cruises will also call on Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The post Symphony of the Seas: What’s New Onboard and Which Islands Can You Visit? appeared first on Islands.

“We are very excited to get back home to our friends in St. Thomas,” says Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “The Caribbean is our family, having cruised there for nearly 50 years, and the long-standing relationships created in all this time are unwavering.”

Power and water have been restored to St. Thomas, so cruisers can explore the restaurants, bars and shops that are open on Main Street in Charlotte Amalie and at Havensight Mall.

Royal Caribbean has also partnered with the USVI government and Magens Bay Authority to help rebuild Magens Bay, a 1-mile beach frequented by tourists and locals. The popular spot will also reopen November 10.

In addition, catamarans are ready to lead water-based excursions, while Secret Sands Beach, Secret Harbor Beach Club, Lindquist Beach, Honeymoon Beach on Water Island, and Abi Beach are all ready to welcome guests.

Royal Caribbean plans to resume sailings to other islands impacted by the recent hurricanes in the next few weeks. Freedom of the Seas will return to San Juan, Puerto Rico, on November 30, and Grandeur of the Seas will return to Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on December 17. Oasis-class vessels will return to St. Maarten in early 2018, as more time is needed to repair the gangways specially designed for these types of ships.

There will be plenty for cruisers to do in both ports. St. Maarten has power and water, and many of the shops, restaurants and bars surrounding Philipsburg are open. It’s also safe to swim at Cupecoy Beach, Mullet Bay Beach and Maho Beach. Sunset Beach Bar, a popular spot to watch the planes land at Princess Juliana International Airport, reopened in early November.

In San Juan, power and transportation are expected to be back on track by late November. Once power is restored, popular landmarks like the fortresses of El Morro and San Cristobal in Old San Juan will reopen to the public. Visitors can also shop at The Mall of San Juan and Plaza Las Americas, which have several stores currently open, and expect to be fully operational once power is restored.

The best way to help hurricane relief efforts in the Caribbean is to keep traveling to the region. With the reopening of these popular cruise ports, tourism revenue will help these islands and the residents get back on their feet. Book your next cruise at royalcaribbean.com.

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Transatlantic Fashion Week Cruise

The scoop: Fashion designers, historians, and photographers will be onboard for a week of activities including runway shows, fashion presentations, and photography exhibitions. Get ready for the catwalk with fashion and styling workshops (head to toe, let your whole body talk).
Dates: September 2-9, 2018
Ship: Cunard Queen Mary 2 Port of Departure: Southampton, UK Itinerary: New York, NY Website: cunard.com

2018 Hawaiian Running Cruise

The scoop: If you’re going to run on vacation, you might as well do it with a view of Hawaii. Explore the Hawaiian Islands by running (walking is okay too) a 5K or a half marathon in Maui, and a 5K or 10K in Kona on the Big Island. For a change of pace, explore trails in Kauai or hike to the Kilauea Iki crater in Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dates: September 15-22, 2018
Ship: Norwegian Pride of America
Port of Departure: Honolulu, HI
Itinerary: Maui; Hilo, Kona, Big Islands; Kauai
Website: runningcruise.com

The Sci-Fi Sea Cruise

The scoop: The 21st annual Sci-Fi Sea Cruise is all about Doctor Who — guests from the show’s long run include Wendy Padbury, Ian McNeice and Frazer Hines. Join fellow Whovians for the cruise’s first trip to the Pacific Northwest.
Dates: September 21-28, 2018
Ship: Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas
Port of Departure: Seattle, WA
Itinerary: Astoria, OR; San Francisco, CA; Victoria, B.C.
Website: scificruise.com

Amazon River Cruise with Jean-Michel Cousteau

The scoop: Touring the Amazon River is an adventurer’s dream, but having the opportunity to do so with a professional explorer and film producer takes this cruise to the next level. Jean-Michel Cousteau will be on hand to teach about environmentalism and conservation as you tour the jungles of the Amazon. On board, Cousteau will offer stories and lessons from his adventures.
Dates: October 5-12, 2018 (3- and 4-night packages also available)
Ship: Aria Amazon
Port of Departure: Iquitos, Peru
Itinerary: Nauta, Peru
Website: aquaexpeditions.com

Legends in Blue Cruise

The scoop: What better way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Los Angeles Dodgers World Series victory than to spend time with members of the 1988 team? Mike Marshall, Derrel Thomas and Dennis Powell will be on hand, and fans can fill their days with activities such as Home Run Trivia Kings and “A Day to Remember” — highlights from the championship-clinching game.
Dates: October 18-22, 2018
Ship: Ruby Princess
Port of departure: Los Angeles, CA
Itinerary: Catalina Island, CA; Ensenada, Mexico
Website: grouptravel.travelstore.com

Chris Jericho’s Rock N’ Wrestling Rager

The scoop: Do you find lounging by the pool with a drink a little too relaxing? If you think a cruise would be more exciting with body slams and pile drivers, the Rock N’ Wrestling Rager is for you. Host Chris Jericho joins wrestling legends like Mick Foley and Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat for four nights of podcasts, meet-and-greets and even a wrestling tournament.
Dates: October 27-31, 2018
Ship: Norwegian Jade
Port of Departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas
Website: chrisjerichocruise.com

The New York Times Christmas Markets of the Danube

The scoop: Experience Europe’s Danube River and the special markets that operate only at Christmastime. Excursions include guided tours and bike rides through several European cities. And, since this is a cruise hosted by The New York Times, Maureen Dowd and Andrew Rosenthal will be onboard to talk politics and current events.
Dates: December 10-20, 2018
Ship: Crystal Mozart
Port of Departure: Vienna, Austria
Itinerary: Melk, Linz, Krems (Austria); Passau (Germany); Bratislava (Slovakia)
Website: nytimes.com

Star Trek : The Cruise III

The scoop: Trekkies can join fellow fans for a variety of theme nights including “Risa’s Festival of the Moon Party,” and a costume ball where Trekkies can show off their most outrageous tributes. Of course, fans can also expect guests from Star Trek’s history including Jonathan Frakes and Wil Wheaton, as well as music from Thomas Dolby.
Dates: January 4-10, 2019
Ship: Norwegian Jade
Port of Departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Great Stirrup Cay, Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands), Falmouth (Jamaica)
Website: startrekthecruise.com

The Walking Dead Walker Stalker Cruise

The scoop: The Walking Dead fans can rub shoulders with stars from the show like Norman Reedus (Daryl). Full details have yet to be announced, but based on past cruises, fans can expect autograph sessions, panels and meet-and-greets. Much like the show, all things must come to an end — this is the final Walker Stalker cruise.
Dates: February 21-25, 2019
Ship: Norwegian Pearl
Port of Departure: Tampa, FL
Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas
Website: walkerstalkercruise.com

Ante Up Poker Cruise

The scoop: The highs (and lows) of playing slots on a cruise is always fun, but if you’re a little more serious about gambling, this is the themed cruise for you. With multiple tournaments, you can easily find a level of play that you’re comfortable with. Not ready to take on the pros? Free poker classes can help you get ready for the big leagues.
Dates: February 25-March 13, 2019
Ship: Royal Caribbean Jewel of the Seas
Port of Departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Cartagena (Colombia); Colon (Panama); Puntarenas (Costa Rica); Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala); Huatulco, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas (Mexico)
Website: anteupmagazine.com

Holistic Holiday at Sea XVI

The scoop: Vegans, rejoice: With expertly trained chefs and waiters aboard, you won’t have to worry about what’s for dinner. This 11-day cruise specializes in vegan meals, as well as accommodating special diets such as macrobiotic, raw and gluten-free. Want to continue your healthy habits at home? Cooking classes taught by internationally known chefs are offered throughout the cruise.
Dates: March 3-14, 2019
Ship: MSC Divina
Port of Departure: Miami, FL
Itinerary: Ocho Rios (Jamaica); Oranjestad (Aruba); Cartagena (Colombia); Colon (Panama); Costa Maya and Cozumel (Mexico)
Website: atasteofhealth.org

2019 Hawaii Golf Cruise

The scoop: Test your skills at some of the best golf courses in Hawaii, like The Plantation Course on Maui, and Poipu Bay on Kauai, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Island transportation, green fees and cart rental are included in the cruise fare, and non-golfing companions are welcome.
Dates: May 18-25, 2019
Ship: NCL Pride of America
Port of Departure: Honolulu (Oahu)
Itinerary: Kahului (Maui); Hilo (Big Island); Kona (Big Island); Nawiliwili (Kauai)
Website: golfahoy.com

Grand Prix & Cannes Voyage

The scoop: Some of us are content to watch NASCAR and the Oscars at home. This themed cruise — overnighting first at the Cannes Film Festival, and then at the Monte- Carlo Grand Prix — is more for those who would rather experience the action in person. Sorrento and Barcelona round out the culture-packed itinerary.
Dates: May 18-28, 2019
Ship: Azamara Journey
Port of Departure: Rome, Italy
Itinerary: Sorrento, Portoferraio, Livorno (Italy); Cannes and Corsica (France), Monte-Carlo, Monaco; Barcelona, Spain
Website: azamaraclubcruises.com

2019 Cooking at Sea Cruise

The scoop: Celebrity Chefs Francine Roberts Bryson (winner of the National Pie Championship) and Erik Holdo host a Latin-inspired cooking cruise complete with a stop in Havana, Cuba, where passengers can experience Cuban cuisine and nightlife.
Dates: June 10-15, 2019
Ship: Royal Caribbean Majesty of the Seas
Port of Departure: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Itinerary: Key West, FL; Havana, Cuba
Website: southernsailings.com

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From the first go-cart racetrack to a water slide with a 10-story plummet to a skydiving simulator, these unique cruise attractions mean your days spent at sea will be anything but boring.

SkyRide – Carnival Cruise Line

Take a ride on the closest thing to an actual roller coaster at sea on Carnival Cruise Line’s SkyRide, found on the Carnival Vista. Ride an open-air bicycle-like vehicle around an 800-foot-long track built atop the ship at speeds of up to 18 miles per hour. Race your friends while taking in panoramic views of the sea 150 feet below on one of the best cruise ship attractions.

FlowRider – Royal Caribbean

Located on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-, Oasis– and Freedom-class ships, the FlowRider features a surf simulator that generates waves on top of a cushioned platform, mimicking what it’s like to actually surf on the ocean. Catch waves by either standing up or by boogie boarding on one of the best cruise attractions.

Race Track – Norwegian Cruise Line

Take a spin on a two-level Ferrari-branded go-cart racetrack in the middle of the ocean on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy. For the first-ever racetrack at sea, 10 passengers at a time will compete in electric go-carts throughout an 833-foot-long course.

Dr. Seuss WaterWorks Water Park – Carnival Cruise Line

Be greeted by larger-than-life images of Dr. Seuss characters at Dr. Seuss WaterWorks on Carnival Horizon. This family-friendly water park features two slides, including the Cat in the Hat slide with over 450 feet of twists and turns and the Fun Things slide, named after the Thing 1 and Thing 2 duo. The water park also includes a 150-gallon tipping bucket patterned after the Cat’s hat and a kiddie splash zone.

RipCord by iFLY – Royal Caribbean

Skydiving at sea? Yes, it’s a thing. Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas both feature RipCord by iFLY, the first-ever cruise ship skydiving simulator. During this gravity-defying adventure, you’ll be suspended midair in a 23-foot-high, glass-enclosed vertical tunnel perched on the top deck of the ship. (Don’t worry, a seasoned pro will be with you the entire time.)

AquaDuck and AquaDunk – Disney Cruise Line

The AquaDuck on Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy features a translucent tube so you can see the action as the slide takes fast dips, turns and uphill climbs over the side of the ship. On Disney Magic, the AquaDunk water slide features a three-story vertical drop through a trap door into a translucent tube that shoots out 20 feet over the ship’s side.

Ultimate Abyss – Royal Caribbean

Located aboard Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas (the world’s largest cruise ship), the 10-story Ultimate Abyss is the tallest water slide at sea.

Largest Ropes Course at Sea – Norwegian Cruise Line

Found on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Escape, this three-story, elevated ropes course features 99 different elements, including an exhilarating sky rail where you can glide through the air on zip tracks. This ropes course will test your courage, as it spans the entire width of the ship and even features two planks that extend eight feet from the side of the ship.

The Perfect Storm – Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas features the Perfect Storm’s trio of water slides: two dueling, racing slides called Typhoon and Cyclone and one funnel-shaped tube slide called Supercell. Each slide plummets through a series of twists and turns, starting at the top deck and ending at the pool deck.

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Royal Caribbean has announced its fourth Oasis-class ship Symphony of the Seas as the world’s largest cruise ship, which will sail throughout Europe and the Caribbean starting in April 2018. The vessel encompasses 230,000 gross registered tons and offers 28 more staterooms than its sister ship Harmony of the Seas. Here are three reasons to get excited about Symphony of the Seas.

1. Sail through Europe

Symphony of the Seas will spend her inaugural summer season in 2018 throughout Europe exploring the Mediterranean, stopping at ports like Barcelona, Spain; Provence, France; and Florence, Italy. The cruise arrives to Miami in early November to begin seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries with new stops for Oasis-class ships in Costa Maya, Roatan and St. Kitts and Nevis.

2. New Cruise Terminal

Royal Caribbean is building an all-new cruise terminal for Symphony of the Seas and sister ship Allure of the Seas at PortMiami’s Terminal A (nicknamed “Crown of Miami”). The cruise terminal is 170,000 square-feet and is scheduled for completion upon the arrival of the two ships in 2018. Crown of Miami will serve as the homeport to several Royal Caribbean cruise ships with a spacious dock with capacity for a 1,300-foot-long ship (the Oasis-class ships are nearly 1,200 feet long).

“This is an exciting collaboration with Miami-Dade County and PortMiami to create not just another cruise terminal but an iconic state–of–the–art facility,” says Richard D. Fain, CEO and chairman for Royal Caribbean Cruises. “Terminal A reinforces our unwavering commitment to our hometown, the city where our company first started nearly 50 years ago.”

3. Variety of Onboard Activities

Royal Caribbean will offer an array of fun-filled activities, including the FlowRider surf simulator, Splashaway Bay aqua park, Perfect Storm water slides (a trio of water slides called the Typhoon, Cyclone and Supercell) and the Ultimate Abyss, which is a 10-story thrill slide — and the tallest slide at sea.

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Read more: What We Love About Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas

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1. Guaranteed Pool Time

A virtually invisible membrane roof stretches across the sun deck and pool — keeping out inclement weather and assuring a dip — on AIDA Cruises’ new Prima vessel. The ship is bound for ports worldwide, setting sail March 22, 2016, from Hamburg, Germany, to Yokohama, Japan. Come nightfall, the dome doubles a projection screen for laser and virtual star shows. The 86-day maiden voyage starts at $10,638 per person.

2. Bionic Bartender

Imagine a future where you order via an app and a robotic bartender muddles, shakes and strains the perfect cocktail in under a minute. That future is now on Royal Caribbean‘s Quantum of the Seas and its soon-to-debut Harmony of the Seas. Bonus: no need to tip.

3. Your In-Room Spa

They had us with unlimited spa treatments. On Regent Seven Seas Cruises‘ new 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer, setting sail July 2016, the Regent Suite includes an in-room spa treatment area — a first at sea. Those who book it receive unlimited massages, facials and as many other spa services as they like. The two- bedroom suite also boasts a sauna, glass-enclosed hot tub and 270-degree views of the sea. Rates start at $5,000 per person, per day. rssc.com

4. Cold Front on Deck 16

On most cruise ships, the place to chill out is the pool. On Norwegian Cruise Line‘s newest and largest, Norwegian Escape, which debuted in October, the coolest relaxation spot is the Snow Room in the Mandara Spa. This cave-like space, chilled as low as 21 degrees Fahrenheit, gives guests the Scandinavian relaxation experience of hop- ping between heat and cold to increase immune benefits and circulation. Granted, snow bunnies should spend only a few minutes inside. Once core temperatures drop, it’s recommended to continue relaxing in other areas of the spa, like the salt room. Seven- night cruises start at $829 per person; weeklong passes to the Thermal Suite, which includes the Snow Room, start at $199 per person. ncl.com

5. Butler Service

Guests of Royal Caribbean‘s Royal Suite Class who opt for Star Class service — the top of three new high-end tiers — can luxuriate with 24-hour butler detail. The Royal Genie service is available on Oasis- and Quantum-class ships starting in May. Not only will a personal assistant, trained and certified by the Brit- ish Butler Institute, unpack luggage and make dinner and show reservations, he or she will also shake up custom cocktails. And your butler can take care of shore excursions, customizing tours if the avail- able options don’t match your interests. Also included: Free Wi-Fi and gratuities. Alas, your butler can’t make sure you don’t miss the boat. Tier 1 per-person fares from $5,799. royalcaribbean.com

6. Free Wi-Fi

Starting in 2016, all guests of Silversea Cruises will enjoy free Wi-Fi — but it’s capped at one hour per person per day. Those in the Medallion suite class and higher will receive unlimited Wi-Fi.

7. Room for Everyone

Parents and children voyaging together on Holland America‘s new Koningsdam can book family state-rooms: one suite, two showers and sleeping arrangements for five.

Looking for more cruise tips for 2016? Check out the best music-themed cruises for this year.

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NCL’s Norwegian Escape

Launch: October 2015
The details: Carrying 4,248 guests, Escape will be the largest ship in the NCL fleet when it sets sail this fall. Sailing a Caribbean itinerary from its home port in Miami, Escape‘s features include: the first Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar at sea, a Latin seafood specialty restaurant, a craft brew hall, the largest ropes course at sea, a theater featuring two Broadway musicals and an expanded water park for the kids.

Holland America’s Koningsdam

Launch: April 2016
The details: Koningsdam will makes it home in Fort Lauderdale and offer 7- to 1-day Caribbean itineraries. With room for 2,650 guests, Koningsdam will include a Culinary Arts Center with a show kitchen and individual cooking stations that will offer hands-on classes by visiting celebrity chef. Another unique amenity will be a digital workshop where Microsoft-training experts will lead small group sessions on topics including photo editor, movie creation and cloud storage.

Viking Ocean Cruise’s Viking Sky

Launch: March 2016
The details: Viking’s expansion from river cruises to ocean cruises continues with Viking Sky. The new ship will be more intimate – holding just 930 guests – and will offer some of the same amenities as its river ships, including the Aquavit Terrace. Viking Sky is expected to sail mostly Mediterranean and Western Europe itineraries.

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas

Launch: April 2016
The details: All the glitzy, eye-popping toys will be on full display when the Ovation of the Seas sets sail. Among its amenities: RipCord by iFLY (the first skydiving experience at sea), huge poolside movie screen and Seaplex, an indoor rec center offering bumper cars, roller skating, a circus school and surf simulater. Too much action for you? Then cool down at the ship’s ice bar. If you’re up for the adventure, a cruise on Ovation of the Seas will require a plane ticket … to China, where the ship will be based year-round.

Regent Seven Seas’ Explorer

Launch: July 2016
The details: Explorer will be an all-suite, all-balcony ship accommodating 738 guests. The cruise line is promising “ultra-elegant public rooms, a wide-range of gourmet dining options and a museum-worthy art collection will ensure our guests experience a new standard in luxury cruising.”

Seabourn’s Encore

Launch: Late 2016
The details: The all-suite ship is modeled after Seabourn’s Odyssey-class ships, but will include one additional deck and expanded public areas. Encore is expected to carry just 600 guests, and every suite will feature a private veranda.

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